Drone photo at Chichén Itzá goes viral, but begs questions about laws

This bird’s eye photo of Kukulkan Temple at Chichén Itzá drew swift reaction after being posted on Reddit.

Social media lit up after a drone flew over the top of Kukulkán temple and took an unusual birds-eye photo, which was published online. Many Reddit users also praised the photographer for his work, while others condemned the photographer for taking it.

Drones are officially banned at the Chichén Itzá archaeological park, although tourists at times fly them there anyway.

The intrepid photographer on Reddit reported that he scouted ahead from his hotel, which is near Chichén Itzá. Mendiburu launched his drone at 5 a.m. from the hotel’s roof. That would be three hours before the park opens.

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Prohibitions against drones are for the safety of other visitors, but no people are seen in the aerial photo.

The Federal Aviation Administration FAA in the United States bans drones at its own heritage sites, such as the Statue of Liberty.